NASA Expert to Reveal Research on Columbia Disaster

Cedarville, Ohio-How did insulating foam bring about the demise of the Space Shuttle Columbia? Matt Melis can tell and show you when he speaks at the Engineers Club of Dayton on Thursday, Feb. 22.

A ballistics impact engineer at NASA's Glenn Research Center, Melis researched and recreated the conditions which led to the February 1, 2003, break-up of the Columbia and the death of her seven crew members. His systematic engineering program culminated in full-scale testing that proved that a wayward chunk of insulating foam led to the disaster.

At the Engineers Club, located at 110 East Monument in Dayton, Melis will present video footage previously unseen by the public and speak about his findings. His presentation begins at 7 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

Melis' visit corresponds with National Engineers Week (February 18-24) and is sponsored by Cedarville University. For more information, call the Cedarville University PR Office at 937-766-4159.